Andalusite: Say Bye-Bye to the "Evil Eye"
Andalusite is a gemstone that ranks 7-7.5 on the Mohs scale of hardness. Depending upon which angle it is viewed from, andalusite will appear to have several different colors. The andalusite gemstone is a gemstone that has been around for quite some time, yet many people have never heard of it.
Andalusite is a naturally occurring gemstone, meaning it does not require any enhancements, such as heat, to help achieve its beauty. Andalusite was found in Spain many, many years ago—1789. It was named after Andalusia (sometimes spelled Andalucia), Spain, where it was discovered. Spain is no longer the primary source for andalusite. In today’s era, Sri Lanka and Brazil provide a large portion of andalusite gemstones. In addition to Spain, Sri Lanka, and Brazil, andalusite has also been found in the United States, Canada, Australia, and Russia.
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One of the sensational characteristics of andalusite is that it is a pleochroic gemstone. A pleochroic gemstone means that different viewing angles provide the viewer with a different color. Although andalusite has at times been termed “poor man’s alexandrite,” it is important to note that lighting conditions have nothing to do with the variety of colors an andalusite gemstone displays. The colors that andalusite gemstones display are reddish brown, yellowish green, and grayish green. These earth tone colors, along with the durability of the stone, make andalusite a very good choice for men's jewelry.
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Unlike they do with tanzanite and iolite gemstones, which are also pleochroic, gemstone cutters try to maintain the various colors of the andalusite stone when cutting it. With tanzanite and iolite, cutters try to produce the best possible color, which minimizes the pleochroic effect. Fancy cuts are the best for andalusite gemstones because they provide a greater amount of color play. Because of andalusite’s strength, only normal gemstone care is necessary.
Chiastolite, also known as star andalusite, contains inclusions of carbon that is arranged in the formation of a cross. In many countries, these have been used as amulets because of the symbolism of the cross. Star andalusite is thought to be a protective gemstone against “evil eye” curses.
Metaphysically speaking, some people believe andalusite broadens the intellect and provides mental clarity to better solve problems.
One of the other reasons andalusite has been referred to as “poor man’s alexandrite” is the fact that it is reasonably priced—anywhere from $40 to $200 per carat, which is far less than natural alexandrite. Andalusite, with its moderate prices and earthy colors will richly accentuate any person’s wardrobe. People will be looking with envious eyes at those who are wearing andalusite, not with “evil eyes.”
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